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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 3


Page 3 of 376

Bacteria could be rich source for making terpenes

New research at Brown University reveals that bacteria have the genetic capacity to produce terpenes, with 262 gene sequences found to code for enzymes responsible. The team used these enzymes to isolate 13 previously unknown bacterial terpenes, providing a new paradigm for discovering natural products.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 23, 2014

Study finds Facebook popularity hampers fundraising efforts

Research by an economist at the University of Warwick found a negative correlation between Facebook connections and charitable donations. People with fewer friends on Facebook raised more money for charity than those with lots of connections. Additionally, individuals who complete tougher fundraising activities generate more cash.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalInternational Economic Review·DateDec 23, 2014

Coral reveals long-term link between Pacific winds, global climate

New research suggests that Pacific trade winds played a key role in twentieth-century climate variation, coinciding with globally warming temperatures. The study found that weaker winds allowed warming to accelerate, while stronger winds prevented it. This natural process has been linked to the current slowdown in global warming.

Shedding new light on the diet of extinct animals

Scientists used magnesium isotopes to analyze the diet of living mammals in Gabon's equatorial forest. This method provides a strong basis for inferring the diet of extinct animals. The study's findings offer new insights into ancient ecosystems and interactions between organisms.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Bone loss drugs may help prevent endometrial cancer

Researchers found that bisphosphonate users were half as likely to develop endometrial cancer, suggesting a potential preventive effect. The study suggests that women taking bone-strengthening medications with increased endometrial cancer risk may benefit from nitrogen-form bisphosphonates.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateDec 22, 2014

Study: Industrial clusters fuel economies

A new MIT study reveals that industrial clusters across various industries drive economic growth by fostering job creation, innovation, and the formation of new industries. The research suggests that regions can improve their economic performance by investing in and extending their comparative advantage rather than chasing global hotsp...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalResearch Policy·DateDec 22, 2014

Scientists find drug that helps Huntington's disease-afflicted mice -- and their offspring

A new study from The Scripps Research Institute suggests a drug compound can benefit not only parents but also their children by changing genetic expression, leading to improved memory and motor skills in offspring with Huntington's disease. This breakthrough discovery offers promising potential for treating the inherited disorder.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Using light to understand the brain

Researchers at UCL have developed a technique that combines two cutting-edge technologies to read and write electrical activity in the brain. By using flashes of light, they can both observe and control brain activity in mice, opening up new possibilities for understanding neurological conditions such as autism and dementia.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 22, 2014

Variety is the spice of humble moth's sex life

A new study reveals the gold swift moth's intricate mating patterns and sexual positions, showcasing a 'Karma Sutra' of insect behavior. The research suggests that this complexity is an adaptation to the scarcity of mating grounds, driving the development of varied courtship strategies.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateDec 22, 2014

Graying, but still golden

Researchers found that older adults' acquired financial knowledge and experience can compensate for declining fluid intelligence, leading to more efficient financial decision-making. The study used credit scores and cognitive tests to demonstrate the importance of crystallized intelligence in finance.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Guilt complex

Research suggests that highly guilt-prone people are valuable work partners who outwork colleagues, demonstrate effective leadership, and contribute to team success. However, they may avoid forming partnerships with more competent individuals to prevent feelings of guilt.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 22, 2014